Jazz
Such a beautiful evening of music — two relatively concise sets, one an hour long, another a little less — adding up to an integral whole.
“Music here is great, cutting edge. But to get an audience anywhere you need to get covered … Promoting is a struggle, dealing with the lack of media coverage.”
Albare Plays Jobim: A Tribute to Antonio Carlos Jobim is a traditional Brazilian offering, content to offer soothing Bossa Nova rhythms; Freedom is more unconventional, merging Brazilian beats with jazzier improvisations.
Four! is one of Hampton Hawes’ most satisfying sessions, for the variety of the repertoire and the quality of the performances.
Percussionist Tryshawn Sorey has released a trio disc of standards that may very well be on my 2022 Best of the Year list and a pair of “new” releases featuring the legendary pianist Bill Evans.
Trombonist Steve Davis says he never strays very far from the blues, and he proves it with this fine album.
Play or Die brilliantly showcases what Miles Davis heard in Tony Williams’ playing: variety of sound within a restricted framework.
We’d returned to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. We’d ridden a paddle-wheeler on the Mississippi River. It was good to be back, and why we’ll go back every chance we get: to life.
At his best — and there are indeed moments of that here — Keb’ Mo’ is a genre-bender who brings new listeners to blues, folk, and smooth soul music.
Arts Appreciation: Long Overdue — Homage to Julius Eastman, Fierce Black Queen Iconoclast
Scorned and consigned to oblivion in his day, Julius Eastman is finally being celebrated for his unabashed talent and the sheer audacity of his inimitable genius. Brava diva!
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